UCLA receivers took a step back in 2010. Does that mean they’re ready to take two steps forward? The first one might have already been taken in the form of Mike Johnson, the Bruins’ new receivers coach and offensive coordinator.

The way we see it:UCLA has a lot of depth here but incited little danger in 2010. The receivers had both hands in what was a feeble passing game, as they dropped way too many passes. That leaves a lot of room for movement. Rosario took a step back last year will start unless Injured. Embree, a two-year starter, also regressed and is less of a sure thing to start. Carroll showed some mettle late in the season and is on the cusp of realizing his potential.

Evans, who was one of the top receiver prospects in the nation just two years ago, will be plenty motivated after transferring from Notre Dame and sitting out a season. Marvray and his good hands will fill a situational, third-down type role. Smith was surprisingly a non-factor at receiver and displayed a limited skill set despite superior athleticism. J. Johnson hasn’t been consistent enough in practice to be trusted in games. Lucien will need a big fall camp to play his way out of a redshirt.

Of course, all of this might change dramatically depending on what type of offense M. Johnson installs.

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